
The Federal Government of Nigeria is introducing a National Textbook Ranking System for primary, junior, and senior secondary schools to enhance quality and standardization in the education sector. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Education, aims to prevent the use of substandard textbooks and ensure that only curriculum-compliant, high-quality materials are utilized in classrooms. The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council will continue to approve textbooks, which will then undergo a national ranking process to identify the most suitable options for each subject and level. Standing Subject Committees, composed of experts, will conduct detailed assessments based on academic and pedagogical standards. Only a limited number of top-ranked textbooks will be approved to ensure improved quality control and consistency nationwide. Textbooks not ranked under this new system will not be permitted for use in schools, irrespective of their prior approval status. The new system's implementation is scheduled for September 2026, following consultations with stakeholders and the finalization of the evaluation framework. The Federal Government reaffirms its commitment to improving learning outcomes and ensuring access to high-quality educational resources.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.

The Kwara State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund, has launched a sensitisation campaign to reduce maternal and newborn mortality. The initiative, announced by Saad Hamdalat, Press Secretary of the Kwara State Ministry of Health, emphasizes antenatal care, hospital deliveries, and birth preparedness. Dr. Taoheed Abdullahi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, urged pregnant women to register early for antenatal care and attend all scheduled appointments, highlighting that early detection and management of complications are crucial for reducing deaths. Delivery kits were distributed to encourage clinic attendance and skilled birth assistance. Gloria Enueze, UNFPA Focal Person, underscored the vital role of midwives in maternal and child health and noted the benefits of family planning for birth spacing. Hajia Sulyman Ajibola, Head of Department of Health, Ilorin East Local Government Area, advised participants to use the provided delivery kits and sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets. This campaign is part of activities commemorating the International Day of the Midwife, observed annually on May 5 to recognize midwives' contributions and advocate for investment in midwifery services.

The Presidency has disassociated itself from claims regarding the appointment of Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi by an organization named the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council. A State House statement issued on Thursday by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, clarified that this alleged organization is not recognized by the Federal Government and does not exist under President Bola Tinubu's administration. The statement noted that Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, operating under the guise of this organization, has been presenting himself to the public as having received an appointment from the Chief of Staff's office. The public is advised that no such office or appointment exists within the current administration. The Chief of Staff urged foreign and diplomatic missions, financial and multilateral institutions, development organizations, security agencies, and the general public to be aware of this disclaimer.

New York City has temporarily renamed streets in honor of football legends Thierry Henry and Pele in anticipation of the World Cup. The tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, begins on Thursday, with the final scheduled for next month at the MetLife Stadium, rebranded as the New York New Jersey Stadium. City officials unveiled "Thierry Henry Way" at West 50th Street and 6th Avenue in downtown Manhattan. Henry, a former Arsenal and Barcelona player and 1998 World Cup winner with France, appeared via video call. He also played five seasons with the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer until 2014. Additionally, the intersection of Shea Road and Meridian Road in Queens was renamed after Brazilian legend Pele. These temporary street names will remain in place until November 1.